Manchester United vs Manchester City Preview: Titans meet again in the EFL Cup

With both Manchester clubs struggling for form, can either side revive themselves in this week's EFL Cup tie?

Neither Manchester City or United will look back on the month of October with great fondness with both clubs having equally disappointing games. City have drawn twice and lost twice in all competitions in October. Meanwhile, their Red neighbours have drawn twice and lost once, only winning once.

With this in mind, both sides will look to reinvigorate themselves with a derby win, hoping for a more prosperous November.

Team News

Manchester City

Kevin De Bruyne, Bacary Sagna, and Pablo Zabaleta are all absentees for tomorrow's clash, meanwhile skipper Vincent Kompany will only feature subject to a last-minute fitness test. Moving away from injuries Willy Caballero will receive some game time tomorrow as the supposedly designated 'cup 'keeper', giving the out of form Claudio Bravo some much-needed rest.

Manchester United

Bailly injured his knee against Chelsea and will be out for 2 months | Photo via Getty Images

The Red Devils will be without defensive lynchpin, Eric Bailly who has picked up a knee injury setting him back two months. United will also miss Marouane Fellaini and Phil Jones through knee injuries, Wayne Rooney faces a last-minute fitness test before being selected.

What they're saying?

Despite City drawing first blood this season in the derby, Pep Guardiola remains cautious of United's ability. Speaking in his press conference earlier today he said: "I always expect the best from United. They are a strong team with quality. They are six points behind which is just two games."

Jose Mourinho recognises the tough time which his side is enduring recently and has vowed to stick by them saying: "I am 100 per cent for Manchester United. Because of that, I feel deeply about the situation. But there is only one answer: training, and keep fighting."

The Verdict

Derbies are never a black and white matter, anything can happen in them with little or no warning and the Manchester Derby is no different. Both sides have been in equally poor form and are in urgent need of a revival if they are to last the pace this year. City are more than capable of beating United but given the Blues' defensive frailties of late it won't be a smooth ride.